Upcoming Events
Upcoming Events
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Holiday Chess Champ
When:
Week 1: Mon 12/22, Tuesday 12/23, and Friday 12/26
Week 2: Mon 12/29, Tuesday 12/30, and Friday 01/02
9:00am - 1:00pm (half day);
9:00am - 4:00pm (full day)Where: Buffalo Chess Association, 6043 Transit Rd Suite 101B, East Amherst, NY 14051
Join us for days of chess! All skill levels welcome. Chess camps include unique lessons every day, open chess play, new chess variants, and more!
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Monthly Unrated Chess Tournament
When: Sunday, December 14th 4:00pm-7:00pm
Where: Buffalo Chess Association
6043 Transit Rd, Suite 101B
East Amherst, NY 14051Join us for fun, friendly competition!
Scholastic and Open (Adult) Sections available.
Open to all players. Contact us for details and to sign up!
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Monthly Open Chess Tournament
When: Saturday December 13th, 10:00am - 5:00pm
Where: Buffalo Chess Association
6043 Transit Rd, Suite 101B
East Amherst, NY 14051Entry Fee: $20.00 for online pre-registration before 12/12; $25.00 at the door
Details:
Time control: G45/d5
Format: Open RatedJoin us for a USCF Rated tournament! $200 Prize for 1st place. A USCF Membership is required!
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Secret Santa Bughouse Tournament
When: Sunday, December 21st 4:00pm-7:15pm
Where: Buffalo Chess Association
6043 Transit Rd, Suite 101B
East Amherst, NY 14051A team chess tournament for players of all ages, where everyone will get a gift!
Entry Fee: $20.00 for online pre-registration before 12/21; $25.00 at the door
Details:
Time control: 5m; 0s/d
Prizes:Trophies for 1st, 2nd, 3rd place teams -
QueensKnight Scholastic Chess Club Presents: Holiday Season Tournament
QueensKnight Scholastic Chess is a USCF affiliate which hosts rated tournaments in Erie County NY. Their next chess tournament will be hosted on Saturday, December 20th, 2025. Click the link below to visit their website for more details.
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USCF Rated Blitz Tournament
All Ages and Skill Levels Welcome!
When: Thursday,January 8th 5:00pm - 8:00pm
Where: Buffalo Chess Association 6043 Transit Rd, Suite 101b East Amherst, NY 14051
Entry Fee: $20.00 for online pre-registration $25.00 at the door
Details:
Time control: 10-0; 0s/d
Format: Round Robin or Double Round Robin
Sections: Based on Sign-ups!
BCA Monthly Unrated Tournaments
Come compete with us, every month! These are kid-friendly tournaments with pizza and prizes.
Secret Santa Bughouse Tournament
Buffalo Chess Association Presents
Secret Santa Bughouse Tournament
A team chess tournament for players of all ages, where everyone will get a gift!
When
Sunday, December 21st, 2025
Sign-In: 4:00pm
Rounds: 4:15pm — 7:15pm
Where
Buffalo Chess Association
6043 Transit Rd, #101b, East Amherst, NY 14051
Entry
Pre-Registered BEFORE 12/21: $20
On-Site: $25
Time Control
5m; 0s/d
(5 minutes, with no delay.)
Prizes
Trophies for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Place Teams
Additional prizes for Sportsmanship, age-based prizes, and more
Be ready to bring your A-game!
Secret Santa Gifts
Players must bring a gift to be eligible to receive one!
Gifts will be sorted based on the ages of the players who brought them.
Gift Rules
Cost $20 or less.
Be safe and appropriate for an event that is being attended by children.
Be something that you could be happy to receive.
How it Works
Buy (or make) a gift.
Wrap it, then label it: “From: Your Secret Santa”
Bring it to the tournament on 12/21.
Play your games.
Pick another gift before you leave!
Players face off at BCA.
What is Bughouse?
Chess is frequently associated with silence, solitude, and intense thought. Bughouse has one of those things - you still need to think! In Bughouse you are playing with a teammate against two opponents. You and your teammate both play on separate boards, and as opposite colors.
Rules of Bughouse
If your game ends, so does your teammate’s - and vice versa! Whether you win, get checkmated, draw, or your clock runs out you’re dragging your teammate along with you.
Games will be played with a 5 minute timer. This gives each player 5 minutes of thinking time. If you run out of time you lose, so keep an eye on it!
When you capture a piece, you hand it to your teammate.
On your turn, you can place a piece on the board instead of moving.
Pieces CANNOT be dropped on top of another piece to instantly capture it. (As this would allow you to instantly capture the King and win.)
Pawns CANNOT be dropped on the 1st or 8th ranks of the board. In other words, you cannot drop a Pawn onto the end of the board to instantly promote. You also can’t drop them on your very first line, as they cannot normally get there.
Pieces and Pawns CAN be dropped to make check or checkmate, and to block check! You can even drop pawns a step away from promotion.
If your opponent claims checkmate, you can only use pieces that you already had available to block it. Any pieces handed to you after the checkmate claim cannot be used.
Illegal Moves: If your opponent makes an illegal move (such as ignoring or moving into a check), and hits their clock: Pause it and call for a tournament director! If the TD agrees that their move broke the rules, you and your teammate win. This must be done before making your move, on the turn directly after the mistake, or it will not count!
Players are NOT allowed to hide pieces from their opponents. The first attempt will be a warning, and the second attempt will result in forfeiture of the game.
For more information, check out this excellent write-up on Bughouse on Chess.com: https://www.chess.com/terms/bughouse-chess
Holiday Chess Camp
Students play each other using one of our jumbo chess sets.
Practice, Learn, and Have Fun at Our Annual Holiday Chess Camp!
Join us for fun, learning, and to help your brain grow at Buffalo Chess Association’s Chess Camps! Camps include special chess lessons, puzzles, practice, and tons of fun activities to keeps kids thinking and having fun. Special activities are planned for each day to keep students engaged and learning!
All levels are welcome!
* * *
* * *
When
Week 1: Mon 12/22, Tuesday 12/23, and Friday 12/26
Week 2: Mon 12/29, Tuesday 12/30, and Friday 01/02
Where
Buffalo Chess Association
6043 Transit Road, #101B, East Amherst, NY 14051
Please note: students may sign up for as many days or weeks as they wish.
Full Day Camp
Time: 9:00am - 4:00pm
Rates:
After December 15th , 2025:
3 Day Discount (20% Off): $254.99 (Just $84.99/Day!)
1-2 Days: $104.99/Day
Before December 15th, 2025:
3 Day Discount (20% Off): $239.99 (Just $79.99/Day!)
1-2 Days: $99.99/Day
Half-Day Camp
Time: 9:00am - 1:00pm
Rates:
After December 15th , 2025:
3 Day Discount (20% Off): $149.99 (Just $49.99/Day!)
1-2 Days: $59.99/Day
Before December 15th, 2025:
3 Day Discount (20% Off): $134.99 (Just $44.99/Day!)
1-2 Days: $54.99/Day
* * *
Having fun and staying focused! Students enjoy some games at chess camp.
Lunch and Snacks
Lunch
Full-Day Camp Students must either bring or purchase a healthy lunch! Lunch will be held at 1:15pm.
If purchasing a lunch, please make sure to sign-up and select that option during checkout AT LEAST two days before camp. We cannot guarantee to have a lunch for your child if this option isn’t selected at least 48 hours before their first day of camp.
BCA lunches will vary from day-to-day, with a menu being sent out two days before camp. We will make sure to have options available for all students regardless of their dietary restrictions.
Snacks
All students will receive a light snack at approximately 11:00am.
Snacks will be hypoallergenic, and we will take individual students’ dietary needs into account.
On Fridays all students will receive pizza during snack time for no additional charge.
Lunch Information
Student lunches will consist of a “main course,” “healthy snack,” and “fruit”. Students will also be provided with a choice of drinks.
Main Course
The main part of the meal!
Alfredo Pasta with Chicken & Broccoli
Breakfast Sandwich
Burrito (Vegetarian Options Available)
Chicken Nuggets
Five Cheese Rigatoni (Vegetarian)
Lunchables
Mac and Cheese
Sandwich
And more!
Healthy Snack
A healthy side! Possible options include:
Cheese + Crackers
Popcorn
Veggies + Dip
Yogurt
And more!
Fruit
Options will vary based on season and availability.
* * *
Camp Activities
Chess Lessons
Lessons will vary depending on students' needs, and we will split into groups based on their levels! Types of lessons will include:
Analyzing and learning the history behind exciting Grandmaster and World Champion games throughout history
Learning tactical ideas and how to spot them (tactics from forks to windmills, checkmate patterns, etc)
Discussing strategic ideas and how to utilize them (from simple center control to recognizing when even trades aren't so even after all, and exploiting subtle endgame weaknesses.)
Cooperative group quizzes on previously covered topics.
Many other exercises to help improve students’ problem solving, critical thinking, and other essential skills.
Points and Prizes
At camp students will earn "points" for active participation, good behavior, and achieving goals. On a student's last day of camp for the week, they will be able to exchange their points for a special prize! The more points, the more options they will have for prizes.
Brain Break Activities
While students will be expected to come to camp to learn and improve their chess, it's important to keep things fun! We will offer a variety of ways to keep students interested and engaged. These include:
A "quiet corner" with books, coloring supplies, and other peaceful activities for students who might need a break.
A daily "break time" where students can enjoy a fun and engaging game together. Themes include board games, werewolf, trivia, Pictionary, and more!
Many chess variants (alternate rule sets that make one think about the game differently), including some new ones we have purchased just for this camp! Variants help students feel refreshed while still allowing them to practice the types of thinking that will benefit them in traditional chess.
Various other activities!
Additional Activities
Camps will also include other activities, such as:
"Simultaneous Exhibitions" (one coach plays every student at once, with each getting their own board and game)
Mini chess tournaments
"Chess Challenges" that demand students to play with specific limitations or goals
Plus many other fun and educational activities.
* * *
* * *
Additional Resources:
For additional practice outside of camp, each student may make their own free Lichess account and join the Buffalo Chess Association chess team on Lichess. To create and log into your Lichess account, click here: https://lichess.org/signup.
To join our Lichess team, click here: https://lichess.org/team/buffalo-chess-association.
You will need to create a free Lichess account before you can join the team. PLEASE NOTE: If you do not specify your child’s name and why you are joining the team, you will be declined. This is to make sure our team stays a safe place for all of our students!
* * *
* * *
Questions? Contact us here!
USCF Rated Blitz Tournament
All Ages and Skill Levels Welcome!
When: Thursday, December 4th 5:00pm - 8:00pm
Where: Buffalo Chess Association 6043 Transit Rd, Suite 101b East Amherst, NY 14051
Entry Fee: $20.00 for online pre-registration $25.00 at the door
Details:
Time control: 10-0; 0s/d
Format: Round Robin or Double Round Robin
Sections: Based on Sign-ups!
Thanksgiving Chess Camp
Keep Your Brains Active and Having Fun This November at Our Thanksgiving Break Chess Camp!
Join us for fun, learning, and to help your brain grow at Buffalo Chess Association’s Chess Camps! Camps include special chess lessons, puzzles, practice, and tons of fun activities to keeps kids thinking and having fun. Special activities are planned for each day to keep students engaged and learning!
All levels are welcome!
* * *
A student chooses his next move.
When
Wednesday + Friday
11/26 + 11/28
Where
Buffalo Chess Association
6043 Transit Road, #101B, East Amherst, NY 14051
Please note: students may sign up for as many days or weeks as they wish.
Full Day Camp
Time: 9:00am - 4:00pm
Rates:
After November 15th , 2025:
2 Day Discount (20% Off):$169.99/ 2 Days
$104.99/ 1 Day
Before November 15th, 2025:
2 Day Discount (20% Off): $149.99
1 Day: $99.99
Half-Day Camp
Time: 9:00am - 1:00pm
Rates:
After November 15th , 2025:
2 Day Discount (20% Off):$99.99/ 2 Days
$59.99/ 1 Day
Before November 15th, 2025:
2 Day Discount (20% Off): $89.99
1 Day: $54.99
* * *
Some students enjoying one of our jumbo chess sets.
Lunch and Snacks
Lunch
Full-Day Camp Students must either bring or purchase a healthy lunch! Lunch will be held at 1:15pm.
If purchasing a lunch, please make sure to sign-up and select that option during checkout AT LEAST two days before camp. We cannot guarantee to have a lunch for your child if this option isn’t selected at least 48 hours before their first day of camp.
BCA lunches will vary from day-to-day, with a menu being sent out two days before camp. We will make sure to have options available for all students regardless of their dietary restrictions.
Snacks
All students will receive a light snack at approximately 11:00am.
Snacks will be hypoallergenic, and we will take individual students’ dietary needs into account.
On Fridays all students will receive pizza during snack time for no additional charge.
Lunch Information
Student lunches will consist of a “main course,” “healthy snack,” and “fruit”. Students will also be provided with a choice of drinks.
Main Course
The main part of the meal!
Alfredo Pasta with Chicken & Broccoli
Breakfast Sandwich
Burrito (Vegetarian Options Available)
Chicken Nuggets
Five Cheese Rigatoni (Vegetarian)
Lunchables
Mac and Cheese
Sandwich
And more!
Healthy Snack
A healthy side! Possible options include:
Cheese + Crackers
Popcorn
Veggies + Dip
Yogurt
And more!
Fruit
Options will vary based on season and availability.
* * *
Students watching a chess game during their snack break.
Camp Activities
Chess Lessons
Lessons will vary depending on students' needs, and we will split into groups based on their levels! Types of lessons will include:
Analyzing and learning the history behind exciting Grandmaster and World Champion games throughout history
Learning tactical ideas and how to spot them (tactics from forks to windmills, checkmate patterns, etc)
Discussing strategic ideas and how to utilize them (from simple center control to recognizing when even trades aren't so even after all, and exploiting subtle endgame weaknesses.)
Cooperative group quizzes on previously covered topics.
Many other exercises to help improve students’ problem solving, critical thinking, and other essential skills.
Points and Prizes
At camp students will earn "points" for active participation, good behavior, and achieving goals. On a student's last day of camp for the week, they will be able to exchange their points for a special prize! The more points, the more options they will have for prizes.
Brain Break Activities
While students will be expected to come to camp to learn and improve their chess, it's important to keep things fun! We will offer a variety of ways to keep students interested and engaged. These include:
A "quiet corner" with books, coloring supplies, and other peaceful activities for students who might need a break.
A daily "break time" where students can enjoy a fun and engaging game together. Themes include board games, werewolf, trivia, Pictionary, and more!
Many chess variants (alternate rule sets that make one think about the game differently), including some new ones we have purchased just for this camp! Variants help students feel refreshed while still allowing them to practice the types of thinking that will benefit them in traditional chess.
Various other activities!
Additional Activities
Camps will also include other activities, such as:
"Simultaneous Exhibitions" (one coach plays every student at once, with each getting their own board and game)
Mini chess tournaments
"Chess Challenges" that demand students to play with specific limitations or goals
Plus many other fun and educational activities.
* * *
Additional Resources:
For additional practice outside of camp, each student may make their own free Lichess account and join the Buffalo Chess Association chess team on Lichess. To create and log into your Lichess account, click here: https://lichess.org/signup.
To join our Lichess team, click here: https://lichess.org/team/buffalo-chess-association.
You will need to create a free Lichess account before you can join the team. PLEASE NOTE: If you do not specify your child’s name and why you are joining the team, you will be declined. This is to make sure our team stays a safe place for all of our students!
* * *
* * *
Questions? Contact us here!
Monthly Open Tournament - Guaranteed $200 1st Place Prize
Monthly Open Tournament
Guaranteed $200 1st Place Prize
Join us for a rated chess tournament in our air-conditioned space! BCA students and non-students are welcome.
A $200 cash prize is guaranteed for 1st place.
Games played in this tournament will affect your USCF rating; a USCF membership is required. Visit this link to sign up for a membership or to renew: https://new.uschess.org/join-us-chess
Registrations CLOSE at 9:45am! Play begins at 10:00am sharp!
Where: Buffalo Chess Association, 6043 Transit Rd, #101b, East Amherst, 14051
When: Saturday November 22nd, 10:00am - 5:00pm
Rounds start at:
10:00am
12:00pm
1:30pm
3:00pm
Time control: G45; d5
Format: Swiss System
Entry Fee: $20 for online sign-up, $25 for walk-ins
Payment: cash or card accepted at the door, or Venmo via @Thomas-Warner-95
Sign up through Google Forms here.
Please fill out this form before coming to our tournament by November 21st!
Registrations for this tournament CLOSE at 9:45am the day of the tournament!
Parents' Night Out: Night of the Werewolf
Chess isn’t the only board game! Bring your favorite games, and try out ours at this fun event for ages 5-17
Parents' Night Out: Board Game Madness!
Chess isn’t the only board game! Bring your favorite games, and try out ours at this fun event for ages 5-17
2025 Beat the Heat Chess Tournament
2025 Beat the Heat Chess Tournament
Beat the heat and join us for a rated chess tournament in our air-conditioned space! BCA students and non-students are welcome.
A $200 cash prize is guaranteed for 1st place.
Games played in this tournament will affect your USCF rating; a USCF membership is required. Visit this link to sign up for a membership or to renew: https://new.uschess.org/join-us-chess
Where: Buffalo Chess Association, 6043 Transit Rd, #101b, East Amherst, 14051
When: Saturday August 16th, 10:00am - 4:30pm
Rounds start at:
10:00am
12:00pm
1:30pm
3:00pm
Time control: G45; d5
Format: Swiss System
Entry Fee: $20 for online sign-up, $25 for walk-ins
Payment: cash or card accepted at the door, or Venmo via @Thomas-Warner-95
Sign up through Google Forms: https://forms.gle/aBS8MtPXn8D74uBy8
Please fill out this form before coming to our tournament on Saturday, August 16th!
Summer Chess Camp
Keep Your Brains Active and Having Fun This Summer at Our Summer Break Chess Camp!
Join us for fun, learning, and to help your brain grow at Buffalo Chess Association’s Summer Camps! Camps will include various chess lessons, along with plenty of practice, puzzles, and other fun activities to keeps kids’ minds active and having fun. Special activities will be planned for each day to keep students engaged and learning!
Beginners are welcome!
* * *
“Coach, I see an idea!”
* * *
Where: Buffalo Chess Association
6043 Transit Road, #101B, East Amherst, NY 14051
When: There will be two camp sessions:
Session 1: Mondays - Fridays, June 30th - July 18th, 2025
Session 2: Mondays - Fridays, August 4th - August 29th, 2025
Please note: students may sign up for as many days or weeks as they wish.
Full Day Camp
Time: 9:00am - 4:00pm
Rates:
After June 30th, 2025:
$105/ 1 Day $420/ 5 Days
Before June 30th, 2025:
5 Day Discount (20% Off): $400.00
4 Days: $380.00
1 - 3 Days: $100/ Day
Half-Day Camp
Time: 9:00am - 1:00pm
Rates:
After June 30th, 2025:
$60/ 1 Day $240/ 5 Days
Before June 30th, 2025:
5 Day Discount (20% Off): $220.00
4 Days: $210.00
1 - 3 Days: $55/ Day
* * *
Students play games during the winter chess camp.
Lunch and Snacks
Lunch
Full-Day Camp Students must either bring or purchase a healthy lunch! Lunch will be held at 1:15pm.
If purchasing a lunch, please make sure to sign-up and select that option during checkout AT LEAST two days before camp. We cannot guarantee to have a lunch for your child if this option isn’t selected at least 48 hours before their first day of camp.
BCA lunches will vary from day-to-day, with a menu being sent out two days before camp. We will make sure to have options available for all students regardless of their dietary restrictions.
Snacks
All students will receive a light snack at approximately 11:00am.
Snacks will be hypoallergenic, and we will take individual students’ dietary needs into account.
On Fridays all students will receive pizza during snack time for no additional charge.
Example Lunch Menu
Alfredo Pasta with Chicken & Broccoli
Five Cheese Rigatoni (Vegetarian)
Breakfast Sandwich
Chicken Nuggets
More to come!
* * *
Chess Lessons
Lessons will vary depending on students' needs, and we will split into groups based on their levels! Types of lessons will include:
Analyzing and learning the history behind exciting Grandmaster and World Champion games throughout history
Learning tactical ideas and how to spot them (tactics from forks to windmills, checkmate patterns, etc)
Discussing strategic ideas and how to utilize them (from simple center control to recognizing when even trades aren't so even after all, and exploiting subtle endgame weaknesses.)
Cooperative group quizzes on previously covered topics.
Many other exercises to help improve students’ problem solving, critical thinking, and other essential skills.
Points and Prizes
At camp students will earn "points" for active participation, good behavior, and achieving goals. On a student's last day of camp for the week, they will be able to exchange their points for a special prize! The more points, the more options they will have for prizes.
Brain Break Activities
While students will be expected to come to camp to learn and improve their chess, it's important to keep things fun! We will offer a variety of ways to keep students interested and engaged. These include:
A "quiet corner" with books, coloring supplies, and other peaceful activities for students who might need a break.
A daily "break time" where students can enjoy a fun and engaging game together. Themes include board games, werewolf, trivia, Pictionary, and more!
Many chess variants (alternate rule sets that make one think about the game differently), including some new ones we have purchased just for this camp! Variants help students feel refreshed while still allowing them to practice the types of thinking that will benefit them in traditional chess.
Various other activities!
Additional Activities
Camps will also include other activities, such as:
"Simultaneous Exhibitions" (one coach plays every student at once, with each getting their own board and game)
Mini chess tournaments
"Chess Challenges" that demand students to play with specific limitations or goals
Plus many other fun and educational activities.
Additional Resources:
For additional practice outside of camp, each student may make their own free Lichess account and join the Buffalo Chess Association chess team on Lichess. To create and log into your Lichess account, click here: https://lichess.org/signup.
To join our Lichess team, click here: https://lichess.org/team/buffalo-chess-association.
You will need to create a free Lichess account before you can join the team. PLEASE NOTE: If you do not specify your child’s name and why you are joining the team, you will be declined. This is to make sure our team stays a safe place for all of our students!
* * *
* * *
Questions? Contact us here!
Spring Break Chess Camp
Get your brain’s gears moving this April at our Spring Break Chess Camp!
Join us for days of chess classes and more at our new location at 6043 Transit Road! Camps will include various chess lessons, along with plenty of practice, puzzles, and other fun activities to keeps students’ minds active and entertained. Special activities will be planned for each day to keep students engaged and learning.
All levels are welcome!
* * *
* * *
Now with both Half-Day and Full Day options!
Full Day Camp
Half-Day Camp
Where: 6043 Transit Road, #101B, East Amherst, NY 14051
When: April 14th-18th
Times: 9:00am - 1:00pm
Rates:
After March 27th, 2024:
$105/ 1 Day $420/ 5 Days
Before March 27th, 2025:
5 Day Discount (20% Off): $400.00
4 Days: $380.00
1 - 3 Days: $100/ Day
Where: 6043 Transit Road, #101B, East Amherst, NY 14051
When: April 14th-18th
Times: 9:00am - 1:00pm
Rates:
After March 27th, 2024:
$60/ 1 Day $240/ 5 Days
Before March 27th, 2025:
5 Day Discount (20% Off): $220.00
4 Days: $210.00
1 - 3 Days: $55/ Day
Lunch and Snacks
Lunch
Full-Day Camp Students must either bring or purchase a healthy lunch! Lunch will be held at 1:15pm.
If purchasing a lunch, please make sure to sign-up and select that option during checkout AT LEAST two days before camp. We cannot guarantee to have a lunch for your child if this option isn’t selected at least 48 hours before their first day of camp.
BCA lunches will vary from day-to-day, with a menu being sent out two days before camp. We will make sure to have options available for all students regardless of their dietary restrictions.
Snacks
All students will receive a light snack at approximately 11:00am.
Snacks will be hypoallergenic, and we will take individual students’ dietary needs into account.
On Fridays all students will receive pizza during snack time for no additional charge.
Example Lunch Menu
Alfredo Pasta with Chicken & Broccoli
Five Cheese Rigatoni (Vegetarian)
Breakfast Sandwich
Chicken Nuggets
More to come!
* * *
Chess Lessons
Lessons will vary depending on students' needs, and we will split into groups based on their levels! Types of lessons will include:
Analyzing and learning the history behind exciting Grandmaster and World Champion games throughout history
Learning tactical ideas and how to spot them (tactics from forks to windmills, checkmate patterns, etc)
Discussing strategic ideas and how to utilize them (from simple center control to recognizing when even trades aren't so even after all, and exploiting subtle endgame weaknesses.)
Cooperative group quizzes on previously covered topics.
Many other exercises to help improve students’ problem solving, critical thinking, and other essential skills.
Points and Prizes
At camp students will earn "points" for active participation, good behavior, and achieving goals. On a student's last day of camp for the week, they will be able to exchange their points for a special prize! The more points, the more options they will have for prizes.
Brain Break Activities
While students will be expected to come to camp to learn and improve their chess, it's important to keep things fun! We will offer a variety of ways to keep students interested and engaged. These include:
A "quiet corner" with books, coloring supplies, and other peaceful activities for students who are overwhelmed and need a break.
A daily "break time" where students can enjoy a fun and engaging game together. Themes include board games, werewolf, trivia, Pictionary, and more!
Many chess variants (alternate rule sets that make one think about the game differently), including some new ones we have purchased just for this camp! Variants help students feel refreshed while still allowing them to practice the types of thinking that will benefit them in traditional chess.
Various other activities!
Additional Activities
Camps will also include other activities, such as:
"Simultaneous Exhibitions" (one coach plays every student at once, with each getting their own board and game)
Mini chess tournaments
"Chess Challenges" that demand students to play with specific limitations or goals
Plus many other fun and educational activities.
* * *
Additional Resources:
For additional practice outside of camp, each student may make their own free Lichess account and join the Buffalo Chess Association chess team on Lichess. To create and log into your Lichess account, click here: https://lichess.org/signup.
To join our Lichess team, click here: https://lichess.org/team/buffalo-chess-association.
You will need to create a free Lichess account before you can join the team. PLEASE NOTE: If you do not specify your child’s name and why you are joining the team, you will be declined. This is to make sure our team stays a safe place for all of our students!
* * *
* * *
Questions? Contact us here!
Parents' Night Out: Pajama Movie Night
Bring your comfiest pajamas, blanket, and pillow and join us for a movie night with hot cocoa and popcorn!
February Chess Camp
Feeling chilly? Warm up your brains with chess games, puzzles, and lessons at the Rainbow Bridge Culture Center! Students will be provided with a snack each day, and will be served pizza on Friday.
Grand Opening Simultaneous Exhibition
Come play (or watch others play) against our chess instructors - two vs. all!
Grand Opening Bughouse Tournament
Come Join our Bughouse Chess Tournament to help celebrate the Grand Opening of the 6043 Transit Road Location!
Grand Opening at 6043 Transit Road!
Come check out our Grand Opening at 6043 Transit Rd, on the border of East Amherst and Clarence!
We will be holding a variety of events, including free chess classes, a bughouse tournament, simuls, chess trivia, and more!
The Swindler's Revenge: A Chess Mystery Event
The Staunton Swindler has not been heard of in a long time…. Some have even forgotten he ever existed. But he has returned! His failure to steal Buffalo Chess Association’s treasure in 2022 has only encouraged him to engage in an even more heinous act: to steal the coaches themselves!
With chess coaches disappearing by the minute, it will be up to a crack team of chess detectives to solve this case and rescue their teachers. Surely if one saved them, they could expect gratitude… and prizes! ... Are you up to the task?
This is an "escape room," style event, where students must solve a grand mystery. They will be presented with a series of chess themed problems (including chess tactics, physical puzzles, brain teasers, codes, and more!). Solving them will require creativity, logical thinking, pattern recognition, and other essential skills. Coaches will be present to help students progress through the event (at least, until the Swindler gets them), and to make sure everyone has a good time.
Participants will receive unique prizes for completing this event. These will include official Chess Detective badges, certificates, and more! Every participant will receive an equal prize, as this adventure will be solved with teamwork rather than individual effort.
Parents' Night Out: Chess Movie Night
Join us for food and a movie! Students will be given "chessbux" on entry that they can use to "buy" their choice of foods from our Snack Attack Snack Shop. After the movie, we will briefly discuss the themes and what there is to learn.
Parents' Night Out: Night of the Werewolves
Only you can save Chesstopia…
…or destroy it!
Join us for a thrilling evening of “Werewolf,” the exciting game of social deduction! Players will be assigned roles across three teams (villagers, werewolves, and fool), and will seek to either discover the identity of the werewolves, or to defeat the villagers.
We will be using an audio mixer to provide background music and sound effects, as well as some tweaks to the original game’s rules to make things more interesting for players who are knocked out early.
Participants will be given pizza to eat and supplied with water for drinks.
Where: Rainbow Bridge Culture Center
2390 North Forest Rd Suite 8 Getzville NY 14068
When: August 23rd, 5:00pm-8:00pm.
What is “Werewolf”?
Werewolf is a social deduction game (Like Mafia and Among Us) where players are split into 2-3 teams (The villagers, the werewolves, and the fool). Each team has its own goals, but are not told who is in each team.
Villagers’ Team - Win if Werewolves are voted out:
Farmer - The most basic villager job. You sleep at night, and during the day you discuss events with the town and choose who to vote for.
Seer - The town mystic. At night you point at a player and learn whether or not they are a werewolf.
Doctor - The town healer. At night you point at any player (including yourself) who you wish to protect. They cannot become a ghost that night.
Hunter - The town protector. At night you can either skip your turn, or point at another player. That player becomes a ghost. If they were a Werewolf, you’re okay. If they were a villager you also become a ghost.
BFF’s - The town besties. The BFF’s know each others’ roles, and that neither is a werewolf.
Werewolves’ Team - Win if villagers all become ghosts:
Werewolf - The town terror. At night you see who else is a werewolf. Each night you and other werewolves may point at one person (it must be unanimous). That player becomes a ghost.
Henchman - The town villain. You see who the werewolves are night one. They do not know who you are. You win if the werewolves do, even if you didn’t survive until the end.
Fool’s Team - Wins if voted out:
Fool - The town fool. You win if you are voted out. You do not win if you’re eaten.
Ghosts
When players are voted out or attacked, they become ghosts. They may not speak or interact with the living. However, that does not mean the game is over for them! Ghosts have the following abilities:
Each ghost may choose one living player the night after they are knocked out. If this player survives to the end, then that ghost will also win!
Every 3rd night, ghosts may vote to place a curse on a player.
Werewolf ghosts can either vote with the regular ghosts, or place their own separate curse. However, doing so will reveal that a werewolf was caught!
Curses
Any player can claim or pretend to be cursed at any time. When cursed, players cannot break the rules of their curse. If they do so, they will become a ghost immediately.
Agreeableness - For the next day, you must agree with everything that is said to you or about you.
Charades - You cannot talk, and must use hand gestures to communicate. This curse ends only when you are accused of being the werewolf.
Confusion - You must get everyone’s names wrong during the next day..
Explosion - In two rounds (the night after next) you will explode. However, if you can make someone say the secret word that is given to you, you will be cured! However, they will get the curse instead.
The Fool - You must vote for yourself this round. You can still discuss and argue normally.
Hunger - You must ask the teacher when we’re having pizza at least 3 times this round.
Paranoia - For the next day, you must respond to every accusation that is made, even those that aren’t directed at you.
Restlessness - For the next day, you cannot stop moving. Movements do not need to be large; fidgeting is fine.
Silence - For the next day, you cannot talk.
Smartypants - For the next day, you must act like you’re much smarter than everyone else. Rub it in as much as possible.
Telling - For the next day, you must make a specific gesture whenever lying or being untruthful. The teacher will show you the gesture you need to make.
Tongues - You must speak in an accent for the rest of the game. It can be any accent, just not your normal voice!
Wrath - You must accuse someone this round, and must try to convince others to vote for them.
Heatwave Buffalo Chess Tournament
Come compete in the Buffalo Heatwave Tournament and help raise money for school supplies for refugee children in Buffalo!
Chess is For Everyone - Community Chess Day
Come celebrate International Chess Day with games, learning, food, and a Bughouse tournament!
School's Out Chess Tournament
School’s Out
Chess Tournament
WHERE: NT Youth Center, 383 Vandervoort St, North Tonawanda, NY 14120
WHEN: Saturday, June 24th 10:00am - 5:00pm
Entry Fee: $10
Sections:
Unrated (Scholastic ONLY)
U1100
Open
Time Controls:
Unrated — 30 - 0
U1100 — 30 - 0
Open — 40 - 5
Prizes:
Trophies:
1st - 3rd in Unrated and U1100
Medals:
1st - 3rd Open
Top U1400 Open
Top U800
Top U1100
Top Unrated Player Under 10 Years Old
And Various Keychains for:
Sportsmanship
Creative play
and other misc. categories!
Fundraiser Tournament
Buffalo Chess Association Presents:
Fundraiser Chess Tournament
All proceeds will be sent to aid those affected by the recent earthquakes in Turkey.
Open to all ages - Free Lunch with Admission!
Additional Activities:
Themed Basket Raffle (If you would like to donate a basket, please contact us!)
Simultaneous Exhibition Game
When:
March 4th, 2023
9:30am - 10:00am — Sign-in
10:00am — Play begins
Where:
175 E Park Drive, Tonawanda, NY 14150
Be ready to bring your A-game!
Sections:
Unrated — $20 Entry Fee (Free lunch included)
U1100 (Rated) — $20 Entry Fee (Free lunch included)
Open (Rated) — $20 Entry Fee (Free lunch included)
Blitz (Unrated) — $10 Entry Fee (Free lunch included)
A late fee of $5 will be charged for any players who register on the day of the tournament.
New to tournaments? Click here for a guide to tournament terminology and rules!
Winners of the 2022 Hungry Knights Tournament
Prizes:
Team Trophies for:
-Top U1100
-Top Unrated
Individual Trophies for:
-First Place Unrated
-Second Place Unrated
-Third Place Unrated
-First Place U1100
-Second Place U1100
-Third Place U1100
Individual Medals for:
-First Place Open Section
-Second Place Open Section
-Third Place Open Section
-First Place Blitz Section
-Second Place Blitz Section
-Third Place Blitz Section
-Top U800 Player (U1100 Section)
-Top U1400 Player (U1100 Section)
Additional Awards:
-Various chess key-chains and medals will be awarded for exemplary sportsmanship, playing exciting games, etc.
A photo from our 2021 Back to the Boards Tournament, held at the Lackawanna Senior Center.
Time Controls:
Unrated: 30-0, 5 Rounds
U1000 (Rated): 30-0, 5 Rounds
Open (Rated): 40-5, 3 Rounds
Blitz (Unrated): 5-0, Rounds TBD
Secret Santa Tournament
Buffalo Chess Association Presents:
Secret Santa Chess Tournament
Open to all ages - Free Lunch with Admission!
When:
December 17th, 2022
9:30am - 10:00am — Sign-in
10:00am — Play begins
Where:
Sikora Post 1322
950 Payne Ave, North Tonawanda, NY 14120
Be ready to bring your A-game!
Sections:
Unrated — $10 Entry Fee (Free lunch included)
U1000 (Rated) — $10 Entry Fee (Free lunch included)
Open (Rated) — $10 Entry Fee (Free lunch included)
A late fee of $5 will be charged for any players who register on the day of the tournament.
New to tournaments? Click here for a guide to tournament terminology and rules!
Winners of the 2022 Hungry Knights Tournament
Prizes:
Unrated
Trophies for 1st through 3rd will be awarded, as well as various chess key-chains and medals for exemplary sportsmanship, playing exciting games, etc.
U1000 (Rated)
Trophies for 1st through 3rd will be awarded, as well as various chess key-chains and medals for exemplary sportsmanship, playing exciting games, etc. A medal will be awarded to the best performing player with a USCF rating of 800 or less.
Open (Rated)
Trophies for 1st through 3rd will be awarded, as well as various chess key-chains and medals for exemplary sportsmanship, playing exciting games, etc. A medal will be awarded to the best performing player with a USCF rating of 1400 or less.
A photo from our 2021 Back to the Boards Tournament, also held at the Lackawanna Senior Center.
Time Controls:
Unrated: 20-0
U1000 (Rated): 30-0
Open (Rated): 30-0
Five rounds will be played. Pairings will be generated using the Swiss System.
Hungry Knights Tournament
Buffalo Chess Association Presents:
Hungry Knights Scholastic Chess Tournament
Open to students K-12
When:
November 27th, 2022
9:30am - 10:00am — Sign-in
10:00am — Play begins
Where:
The Rainbow Bridge Culture Center
2390 North Forest Rd Suite 8 Getzville NY 14068
Sections:
Unrated (Beginners) — $10 Entry Fee
Unrated (Intermediate +) — $10 Entry Fee
A late fee of $3 will be charged for any players who register on the day of the tournament.
Prizes:
Unrated (Beginners)
Trophies for 1st through 3rd will be awarded, as well as various chess key-chains and medals for exemplary sportsmanship, playing exciting games, etc. Additionally, first place will receive a colored chess set (one of three choices). Second and Third place will both receive chess notation books.
Unrated (Intermediate +)
Trophies for 1st through 3rd will be awarded, as well as various chess key-chains and medals for exemplary sportsmanship, playing exciting games, etc. Additionally, first place will receive a tournament chess set with a traveling quiver. Second and Third place will both receive chess notation books.
Time Controls:
Unrated (Beginner): 15-0
Unrated (Intermediate +): 30-0
Five rounds will be played.
A Chess-Themed Mystery Event: Intermediate, Advanced, & Challenger Levels
The version held on 9-18 is for beginner and intermediate levels. The version held on 9-25 is for intermediate, advanced, and challenger levels.
A Chess-Themed Mystery Event: Beginner & Intermediate Levels
The version held on 9-18 is for beginner and intermediate levels. The version held on 9-27 is for intermediate, advanced, and challenger levels.
Back to the Board Tournament
Buffalo Chess Association Presents:
Back to the Board Chess Tournament
Open to kids and adults!
When:
September 18th, 2021
9:00am - 9:30am — Sign-in
10:00am — Play begins
Where:
The Lackawanna Senior Center
230 Martin Road, Lackawanna, NY 14218
Lunch will be provided to all players!
Sections:
Unrated — $10 Entry Fee
Rated Under 1200 — $10 Entry Fee
Open — $20 Entry Fee
A late fee of $5 will be charged for any players who register on the day of the tournament.
Prizes:
Unrated
Trophies for 1st through 3rd will be awarded, as well as various chess keychains and medals for exemplary sportsmanship, playing exciting games, etc.
Under 1200
Trophies for 1st through 3rd will be awarded; cash prizes will be offered if an adult wins 1st or 2nd place. Trophies for the best performing U1000 player and for the best performing U800 player will also be awarded.
Rated 1200+
1st Place: $100
2nd Place: $70
3rd Place: $40
Top U1400: $30
Time Controls:
Unrated: 15-0
Rated: 30-0
Five rounds will be played.